Eurodeputy Ilaria Salis faces legal and ethical scrutiny over rule violations

Ilaria Salis, a former activist who entered the European Parliament through the Avs list, is under fire for allegedly defying a modest court order issued in Milan, a move that fuels long-standing concerns about her attitude toward legal compliance. Her hiring of Ivano Bonnin, a former member of the hard-line Bologna social-center movement, appears to breach parliamentary rules that forbid employing spouses, partners or close relatives.

An inspection at a Rome hotel found Salis and Bonnin occupying the same bedroom, and records show they maintained a shared residence in Milan, prompting Strasbourg authorities to investigate the true nature of their relationship. Additionally, Salis terminated two other staff members, Valentina Dadda and Francois Gelmetti, without providing the legally required notice or cause. These actions raise questions about her adherence to both national and EU regulations.